The Heriot-Watt Badminton Club is your go-to place for all things badminton. Whether you’re here to learn the basics, stay active, or push your game to the next level, we offer a friendly and inclusive environment where you can enjoy badminton, meet new people, and be part of a supportive, fun community.
Watt is Badminton?
Badminton is a fast-paced racquet sport played indoors on a court divided by a net. Whether in singles (1v1) or doubles (2v2), players score points by hitting a shuttlecock over the net and into the opponent’s side of the court. It’s a game of speed, agility, reflexes, and strategy, making it perfect for everyone — from complete beginners to seasoned athletes.
Something for Everyone
Whether you’re here for fun, improvement, or serious competition, Heriot-Watt Badminton Club has something for everyone. Here’s how we break it down:
Recreational
Perfect for beginners or casual players looking to enjoy the sport, stay active, and meet new people. These sessions are relaxed, inclusive, and focused on having fun. Open to all members, no experience required!
Development Team
A stepping stone between recreational and competitive play. Ideal for players looking to improve their skills through structured sessions and professional coaching. Players are selected at team trials based on skill, commitment, and attitude.
Competitive Team
For experienced players with a strong foundation. This includes:
- BUCS Teams: Competing against universities across the UK
- Lothian League Teams: Competing against local clubs in Edinburgh
Players are selected based on ability, attitude, and dedication. Training is intensive, coached, and designed to push performance.
Box League
Our internal Box League is open to all members — from recreational to competitive — and is a great way to:
- Get regular match experience
- Meet other players
- Improve your game in a fun, flexible way
Meet the Coach
We are proud to be coached by Alan Oliver, a dedicated and experienced coach with a passion for helping players grow. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or a competitive player refining your technique, Alan provides:
- Professional-level coaching
- Tailored feedback
- A positive and inclusive learning environment
His focus on skill development, confidence-building, and game strategy makes him an asset to both our development and competitive squads.
Not sure if badminton is for you? Come along to one of our sessions, borrow a racket and shuttlecock and give it a go. Be sure to look out for our Committee at one of our sessions!
Unbeatable Value
With us, you get access to prime-time sessions without the stress (or cost) of booking courts yourself.
Weekly Socials & Events
We run weekly socials every Wednesday, often alongside other Sports Union clubs. These include:
- Themed nights out
- Pub quizzes
- Bowling trips
- Study sessions
- Chill hangouts
Whether you’re into parties or prefer something more laid back there’s something for everyone. Our socials are one of the best ways to meet your club members and future friends. Anyone who joins will be welcomed in with open arms!
Boost Your Wellbeing
Badminton isn’t just good for your fitness — it’s also great for your mental health. Regular play can:
- Relieve stress
- Improve focus & mood
- Boost confidence
- Help you feel part of a supportive team
We’re here to support you on and off the court.
Highlights
Last year was a standout season for Heriot-Watt Badminton Club — on and off the court:
- 🏅 Club of the Year
- 🫂 Community Impact Award
- ⭐ Gold Watt Mark Status
On the competitive front:
- Our Lothian League team earned promotion after a dominant season.
- Our BUCS team held firm in a highly competitive Division 1, consistently representing Heriot-Watt with resilience and pride.
These achievements reflect our unique balance between performance, community, and club spirit — and we’re just getting started.
Club Committee
- President – Beth Wardman
- Vice President – Aditya Patil
- 1st Team Captain – Elena Tomlinson
- 2nd Team Captain – Joe Crook
- Wellbeing Officer – Holly Dunlop
- Social Secretary – Evie White
- Treasurer – Ethan McGuinness
Socials
Instagram: @hwubadminton
TikTok: @hwubadminton